Understanding how Acupuncture works

Acupuncture was developed in China over 2000 years ago along with an understanding of “Qi” (Chi) as the life force or energy that circulates through a network of channels (meridians) in our body.

Healthy, flowing, uninterrupted Qi is compatible with an energetic, vibrant state of being. Blocked, stagnant or interrupted Qi flow is considered to be the basis of ill-health and pain. Much like a traffic jam, blocked Qi needs to be addressed so it can continue to flow smoothly. Without intervention, the problem compounds and ultimately causes chronic ill health, pain, fatigue and a lack of energy.

Acupuncture needles inserted at specific points along the meridians stimulate the muscles and nerves and promote Qi flow. Acupuncture also stimulates the body to release natural painkillers and beneficial messengers to enhance tissue healing.

Acupuncture may help to ease the symptoms associated with a range of complaints, such as:

• Lower back pain, sciatica, hip pain

• Neck and shoulder pain

• Facial pain and dental pain, inc temporo-mandibular dysfunction (TMJ)

• Headache

• Difficulty sleeping

• Dysmenorrhoea (painful periods)

• Allergic rhinitis (including hay fever), sinusitis

• Induction of labour, malposition of foetus

• Nausea and vomiting and morning sickness in pregnancy

• Rheumatoid arthritis, sprain, tennis elbow

During your treatment, safety and hygiene is of upmost importance. Only single-use, sterile disposable needles are used. The needles are superfine and entry through the skin is pain free.

In Australia, acupuncture can only be practiced by highly trained professionals who are registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).

What to expect?

Your initial treatment will include a comprehensive case discussion and take approximately 1 hour. After the needles are inserted, you will be left in a quiet, relaxed space for 20 minutes to allow Qi flow to complete a full circuit of your body. You will be free to meditate, listen to relaxing music or have an uninterrupted nap. Many people report a sense of relaxation or euphoria once the treatment begins.

After an acupuncture session it is normal to experience improved sleep and a noticeable increase in daytime energy. Occasionally you may notice sensations at the needle sites such as a mild ache or slight numbness or itchiness. These usually pass within an hour or two following treatment. There is also the possibility of minor bruising at the needle sites.

Ongoing treatment recommendations will be discussed at your initial consultation, based on your individual presentation. As a general guideline, acute conditions with recent onset may only require 2 – 3 treatments. Chronic conditions, such as chronic pain and female reproductive conditions will usually require treatments over a longer period of time. Ongoing treatments usually take 45 minutes each.

Within the first few treatments you should start to notice a difference in your symptoms. If not, we will discuss other treatment options that may be more suitable for you.

Book online today or call Lindy to discuss your treatment options further.